Project for 3rd semester of Bachelor of Information Technology

Calculator

Aarman (S.N )

Mausham Neupane (S.N )

Simran Shrestha(S.N 330528)

Pema Khando Tamang(S.N )

KIST College of Information Technology

Faculty of Science and Technology

Purbanchal University, Nepal

June,2024
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
It is with greatest satisfaction and euphoria that we are submitting our project report entitled
“CALCULATOR”. We have completed it as a part of the curriculum of PURBANCHAL
UNIVERSITY.

We take this opportunity to express a deep sense of gratefulness to our BIT Coordinator
Mr. Deepak Khadka for their amiable support and guidance throughout the completion of
our project and its various stages. We are indebted to all the members of KIST College, for
the valuable support and suggestions. We are extremely thankful for their cooperation and
advices received during the development of this project.

We would also like to express our grace towards PURBANCHAL UNIVERSITY for
designing such a wonderful course structure. The well-arranged curriculum plays a crucial
role for our bright future ahead in the field of information and technology.

We hope our university will accept this attempt as a successful project.

Lastly, I would like to express my gratitude to the whole KIST BIT department and the entire
academic community for providing the conducive learning environment necessary for the
realization of this project.

We hope our University will accept this attempt as a successful project.

Thank you.
 STUDENT’S DECLARATION

We hereby declare that the project entitled “Calculator” submitted in partial fulfilment of
the requirement for the degree of Bachelor’s in Information Technology (BIT) of the
Purbanchal University is our original work and has not been submitted for award of any
other degree or other similar title or prize.

S.N Name Registration No. Symbol No.

1. Aarman 058-3-2-0 33
2. Mausham Neupane 058-3-2-05288-2022 33
3. Simran Shrestha 058-3-2-05304-2022 330528
4. Pema Khando Tamang 058-3-2-05290-2022

Date: / /
 TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
This is to certify that Mr. Aarman, Mr. Mausham Neupane, Miss. Simran Shrestha and
Miss. Pema Khando Tamang of Bachelor’s in Information Technology (BIT) has studied
as per the curriculum of BIT 3rd Semester and completed the project entitled “Calculator”.
This project is the original work and was carried out under the supervision of Mr. Miraj
Pandey as per the guidelines provided by Purbanchal University and certified as per the
student’s declaration that project “Calculator” has not been presented anywhere as a part
of any other academic work.

The detail of the student is as follows:

Name of Students: Aarman ()

Mausham Neupane (321169)
Simran Shrestha (321185)
Pema Khando Tamang (321172)

Semester: 3rd
Subject Code: BIT 206 CO
Subject: Project-III
Project Title: Calculator

…………………………….

Mr. Miraj Pandey

Program Coordinator, BIT

Date: / /
 Abstract of the project

In this project, a robust and efficient calculator is developed using a microcontroller, offering
a practical and compact solution for performing basic arithmetic operations. The calculator is
designed to be user-friendly, with a simple interface consisting of a keypad for input and an
LCD display for output.

The heart of the system is a microcontroller that processes user inputs and performs
calculations in real-time. The project emphasizes efficient use of limited resources, with
carefully managed memory and processing power to ensure quick and accurate results. As
users input numbers and operations via the keypad, the microcontroller interprets these
commands, performs the necessary computations, and displays the results on the screen.

With an eye toward future enhancements, the project lays the groundwork for expanding
functionality, such as integrating more complex mathematical functions or improving the
user interface. This microcontroller-based calculator serves as a testament to the potential of
embedded systems in creating practical, everyday tools with limited hardware resources.

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of Study

Calculators are essential devices used to perform arithmetic operations in various settings,
including educational institutions, offices, and homes. They are crucial for simplifying
complex calculations, improving accuracy, and saving time. The 8051 microcontroller, a
small and efficient computer, is widely used in controlling electronic devices due to its
programmability and versatility. This makes it an ideal choice for creating reliable and
efficient calculators.

In a calculator designed using the 8051 microcontroller, a keypad is used for user input, and
an LCD display shows the results. The microcontroller processes the input data to perform
operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. The 8051
microcontroller has been chosen for its low cost, ease of programming, and flexibility,
making it accessible to both engineers and hobbyists. Users can easily write and upload code
to the microcontroller, allowing for customization and adaptation to various calculation
needs.

Designing a calculator with an 8051 microcontroller involves understanding the interface

between the keypad and the microcontroller, programming the microcontroller to interpret
and process input data accurately, and integrating a display system for clear output
visualization. It combines principles of electronics, programming, and user interface design
to create a practical and efficient device that enhances computational tasks.
Calculators using the 8051 microcontroller play a vital role in ensuring accuracy and
efficiency in mathematical computations. Understanding their operation involves knowledge
of electronics, input/output interfacing, and microcontroller programming, all aimed at
providing a reliable and user-friendly tool for various arithmetic needs. This project
highlights the integration of microcontroller technology in developing everyday tools that
simplify and enhance the accuracy of calculations in diverse environments.

1.2 Problem Statement

Calculators are indispensable tools in educational, professional, and domestic settings for
performing arithmetic operations efficiently and accurately. However, traditional
calculators face several challenges that limit their effectiveness and accessibility:
1. Accuracy and Reliability:
o Manual Errors: Traditional calculators can suffer from manual input errors,
especially in complex calculations, leading to inaccurate results and
potential misunderstandings or miscalculations.
o Wear and Tear: Physical buttons and displays of traditional calculators can
degrade over time, leading to malfunctioning keys or unreadable displays,
thus reducing the calculator’s reliability.
2. User Experience and Accessibility:
o Limited Functionality: Basic calculators often lack advanced functions,
such as memory storage, scientific calculations, or programmability,
restricting their use to simple arithmetic tasks.
o Accessibility Issues: Traditional calculators may not cater to the needs of all
users, including those with visual or motor impairments, due to small
buttons and displays or lack of ergonomic design.
3. Integration and Customization:
o Lack of Integration: Conventional calculators are standalone devices that
do not integrate with other digital tools or systems, limiting their utility in
modern, interconnected work environments.
o Customization Limitations: Traditional calculators offer limited or no
options for customization, preventing users from tailoring the device to their
 specific needs or preferences.
4. Educational Applications:
o Engagement and Learning: Standard calculators used in educational
settings may not provide interactive or engaging learning experiences,
potentially hindering students' understanding of mathematical concepts.
o Programming Education: There is a growing need for educational tools
that introduce students to programming and electronics; traditional
calculators do not fulfill this requirement.
Addressing these challenges requires the development of an advanced calculator
leveraging microcontroller technology, which can offer enhanced accuracy, reliability, and
functionality. By integrating customizable features, improved user interfaces, and
educational tools, a microcontroller-based calculator can significantly enhance user
experience and accessibility while fostering learning and integration in modern digital
environments.
1.3 Objectives

This project aims to develop a reliable and efficient calculator using an 8051
microcontroller to perform basic arithmetic operations.

The main objectives of the enhanced gas monitoring are as follows:

1. To design and implement a user-friendly calculator interface that includes a

keypad for input and an LCD display for output.
2. To utilize the 8051 microcontroller to process arithmetic operations including
addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, with accurate and fast
computation.
3. To ensure ease of use and accessibility, making the calculator suitable for a wide
range of users, including students, professionals, and hobbyists.
4. To document the design process comprehensively, including circuit diagrams, code
explanation, operational procedures and evaluate the system's effectiveness in
performing arithmetic operations.

1.4 Limitations

1. Limited Functionality: The calculator is designed primarily for basic arithmetic

operations and does not include advanced functions such as scientific
calculations, graphing capabilities, or programmable features.

2. Processing Speed and Memory Constraints: The 8051 microcontroller has

limited processing power and memory, which can restrict the complexity and speed
of calculations compared to modern processors.
 3. User Interface Constraints: The simplicity of the keypad and display may limit
the user experience, particularly for users who are accustomed to more advanced
and interactive interfaces.

4. Error Handling: While basic error handling is implemented, the calculator may
not cover all possible input errors or exceptional cases, which could lead to
incorrect results or system crashes.

5. Hardware Durability: Physical wear and tear of the keypad and display over time
can affect the reliability and usability of the calculator, requiring maintenance or
replacement.

Addressing these limitations may involve exploring more advanced microcontrollers,

integrating additional features, and improving the user interface to enhance the overall
functionality and user experience of the calculator.

2. LITERATURE REVIEW
An overview of the literature on microcontroller-based calculators covers their historical
evolution, technological development, areas of application, and current research trends. To
provide a thorough perspective, this review synthesizes academic articles, technical
reports, and industry publications. The concept of electronic calculators dates back to the
mid-20th century, with the advent of transistor-based machines. The introduction of
microcontrollers in the 1970s revolutionized calculator design, making them more
compact, affordable, and versatile.
 A. Historical Evolution and Technological Development:
• Early Electronic Calculators:
The first electronic calculators, developed in the 1960s and 1970s, were bulky and expensive,
utilizing discrete transistors and vacuum tubes (Smith, 2018).
The development of integrated circuits and microprocessors in the late 1960s led to
significant miniaturization and cost reduction, paving the way for the widespread use of
electronic calculators (Jones, 2019).
• Microcontroller Integration:
The introduction of microcontrollers, such as the 8051 series, in the late 1970s and early
1980s marked a significant milestone in calculator technology. These small, programmable
chips enabled the development of compact, reliable, and efficient calculators (Chen et al.,
2020).
Research by Brown et al. (2017) highlights the versatility of the 8051 microcontroller in
various applications, including educational tools and industrial automation.

B. Areas of Application:
• Educational Tools:
Microcontroller-based calculators are widely used in educational settings to teach basic
arithmetic and programming concepts. They provide an interactive learning experience,
enhancing students' understanding of mathematics and electronics (Zhang et al., 2019).
Studies by Li et al. (2018) show that integrating microcontroller-based calculators into the
curriculum can improve students' problem-solving skills and interest in STEM subjects.

• Professional and Domestic Use:

In professional environments, microcontroller-based calculators are employed for routine
calculations, data logging, and simple automation tasks. Their reliability and ease of use
make them valuable tools in offices and laboratories (Johnson & Brown, 2021).
For domestic use, these calculators offer convenience and efficiency for everyday arithmetic
tasks, from budgeting to DIY projects (Wang et al., 2019).

C. Current Research Trends:

• Enhanced Functionality and User Interface:
Recent research focuses on expanding the functionality of microcontroller-based calculators
by incorporating features such as scientific functions, graphing capabilities, and wireless
connectivity (Gao et al., 2019).
Studies by Smith (2020) emphasize the importance of improving user interfaces to enhance
accessibility and ease of use, particularly for individuals with disabilities.

• Energy Efficiency and Sustainability:

Research is also directed towards optimizing the energy consumption of microcontroller-
based calculators to extend battery life and reduce environmental impact. Solar-powered
calculators and low-power microcontroller designs are areas of active exploration (Li &
Wang, 2020).
According to Jones et al. (2019), advancements in energy-efficient microcontrollers and
power management techniques are crucial for developing sustainable electronic devices.

D. Challenges and Limitations:

• Processing Speed and Memory Constraints:
While the 8051 microcontroller is suitable for basic arithmetic operations, its limited
processing power and memory can restrict the implementation of more complex functions
and features (Brown et al., 2017).
Research by Chen et al. (2020) suggests exploring more advanced microcontrollers for
applications requiring higher computational capabilities.

• User Experience and Accessibility:

Traditional microcontroller-based calculators may lack the advanced features and intuitive
interfaces of modern digital devices, limiting their appeal to tech-savvy users (Wang et al.,
2019).
Studies by Zhang et al. (2019) highlight the need for user-centered design approaches to
improve accessibility and usability for diverse user groups.

In conclusion, microcontroller-based calculators have evolved significantly since their

inception, benefiting from advancements in microcontroller technology and integrated
circuits. While they offer reliable and cost-effective solutions for various applications,
ongoing research should focus on enhancing functionality, improving user interfaces, and
addressing energy efficiency challenges. By leveraging new technologies and innovative
design approaches, the next generation of microcontroller-based calculators can continue to
meet the evolving needs of users in educational, professional, and domestic settings
3. SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

4. SYSTEM DESIGN

4.1 Algorithm

4.2 Flowchart

4.3 Block Diagram

4.4 Circuit Diagram

4.5 Gantt chart

S.N Task Week1 Week2 Week3 Week4 Week5

1. Planning

2. Analysis

3. Designing

4. Coding

5. Testing

6. Documentation

Total time: 5 weeks (1.15 months)

5. CONCLUSION
Calculators are indispensable tools in both educational and professional settings, aiding in
the swift and accurate execution of arithmetic operations. The development of calculator
technology, particularly with the integration of microcontrollers like the 8051, has
significantly enhanced the functionality, reliability, and accessibility of these devices.
Advances in microcontroller technology have enabled the creation of calculators that are
not only compact and cost-effective but also versatile in their applications.

Microcontroller-based calculators play a critical role in facilitating accurate and efficient

computations. However, they are associated with certain limitations, primarily due to the
processing power and memory constraints of microcontrollers like the 8051, as well as the
simplicity of their user interfaces. These limitations include restricted functionality to
basic arithmetic operations, potential for manual input errors, and challenges related to
user accessibility and interface design.

From the literature review, it is evident that while microcontroller-based calculators

provide economical and reliable solutions for basic arithmetic tasks, their effectiveness can
be compromised in scenarios requiring advanced computational capabilities or highly
interactive user interfaces. The processing speed, memory limitations, and durability of
hardware components significantly influence their performance and user experience.

To address these challenges, future developments should focus on enhancing the

functionality of microcontroller-based calculators by incorporating more advanced
microcontrollers, improving user interfaces for better accessibility, and exploring energy-
efficient designs for longer battery life. By leveraging these advancements,
microcontroller-based calculators can continue to meet the evolving needs of users in
educational, professional, and domestic settings, ensuring they remain a valuable tool for
efficient and accurate calculations.
 6. FUTURE SCOPE

To address the current limitations and challenges identified in the development of

microcontroller-based calculators, future research and development should focus on the
following areas:

1. Enhanced Microcontroller Technology:

o Future research should focus on integrating more advanced microcontrollers
with higher processing power and memory capacity. This will enable the
calculator to perform more complex operations, such as scientific calculations,
graphing, and programmability, while maintaining affordability.
2. Advanced User Interface Design:
o Developing more intuitive and accessible user interfaces can improve the
usability of microcontroller-based calculators. This includes larger, more
responsive keypads, high-resolution displays, and features designed to
accommodate users with visual or motor impairments.
3. Energy-efficient and Sustainable Designs:
o Exploring energy-efficient designs and power management techniques can
extend battery life and reduce the environmental impact of calculators. Solar-
powered calculators and low-power microcontroller designs are promising
areas for research.
4. Integration with IoT and AI:
o Integrating calculators with Internet of Things (IoT) platforms and artificial
intelligence (AI) algorithms can enhance their functionality. This includes
features like remote access, data logging, automated error detection, and
predictive maintenance, making calculators more versatile and intelligent.
5. Application-specific Solutions:
o Tailoring calculator designs to specific applications, such as educational tools,
professional use, or hobbyist projects, can optimize their performance and
usability. This includes incorporating features relevant to the target user
group, such as programming capabilities for educational calculators or
advanced arithmetic functions for professional use.
6. Educational Integration and Programming:
o Developing calculators that can serve as educational tools to introduce
students to programming and electronics. These calculators can include
features that allow users to write and run simple programs, fostering a deeper
understanding of microcontroller technology and its applications.
7. Regulatory Standards and Guidelines:
o Establishing comprehensive standards and guidelines for the design,
functionality, and usability of microcontroller-based calculators can ensure
uniformity and quality across different products. This includes defining
benchmarks for processing speed, accuracy, and user interface design.

By addressing these future directions, researchers and industry practitioners can enhance the
functionality, reliability, and accessibility of microcontroller-based calculators. These
advancements will ensure that calculators remain valuable tools for efficient and accurate
calculations in educational, professional, and domestic settings, meeting the evolving needs
of users.
7. BIBLIOGRAPHY
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